But they will have to end the Skinner Lane side's nine-match winning run if they are to achieve their ambition.

Collieries are currently second in the NCE League first division and were comfortable 4-0 winners at Appleby Frodingham at the weekend.

Town have already played them away from home in the league this season, going down 3-2 and since them Pontefract have gone from strength to strength.

"No disrespect to Pontefract but I have been a bit surprised by their ascendancy," said boss Mark Brier.

"And I have half a thought that we started their run when we played them in the league

"We played very well in that game but gifted them three goals.

"I don't want us to be the team that takes their winning run into double figures."

Brighouse were frustrated by the weather at the weekend, their league game with Rossington Main at St Giles Road was abandoned at half time with the visitors leading 1-0.

"The lads were disappointed with their first half performance and were ready to go out and do something about it when the game was called off," said Brier.

"The fog came down so badly that you could not see the pitch from the changing rooms."

Brier will take a strong squad to Skinner Lane tonight with Sam Talbot returning from duty with the West Riding FA side.

The midfield will also be bolstered by the return of Damien Place, who became a father at the weekend, and Jermaine Manners who has returned from a racketball competition in Germany.

"Everyone at the club sends their congratulations to Damian," said Brier. "Without him, Jermaine and the injured Mark Brady we had no real voice in midfield on Saturday.

"I had considered taking a hybrid squad for tonight's game but with Saturday's match being abandoned it will be a strong side because I want to keep the lads playing together and match sharp."

Striker Wayne Crossley could be a further couple of weeks away from returning after having his hamstring injury re-assessed by the Town backroom staff.